1/72 Flugzeugstoff

enhance your 1/72 WWI aircraft scale models with the Gothaforce lozenge set also known as “Flugzeugstoff”.  drawing from authentic fabric samples, it seeks to strike the right balance between visual appeal and recreating the iconic 4 and 5-colour lozenge camouflage patterns used on German aircraft during the First World War. it features a very subtle weave structure, carefully balanced to evoke the fabric feel without being overdone, reflecting the reality of several layers of dope diminishing the visibility of the weave.

this set includes both 4 and 5-colour upper and lower surface patterns, offering an economical solution for modelers who want to decorate an entire aircraft with ease. the bolts are versatile and can be applied to fuselages as well as flying surfaces. for flying surfaces, they should be narrowed slightly to accurately replicate the stitching process, ensuring your model is both authentic and accurate.

when it comes to applying bolts on flying surfaces, there is a surprising lack of reliable historical data. while some sources suggest alternating the orientation of bolts was standard practice, we’ve found little conclusive evidence to support this. after studying numerous historical photographs—many of which lack the clarity to make definitive conclusions—we observed several instances of bolts laid in the same direction, as well as examples where individual bolts were significantly narrower than the standard width, barely spanning two ribs.

similarly, the idea of bolts being laid at identical heights across the surface seems highly unrealistic. In the absence of uniform mass manufacturing practices, it’s likely that speed and efficiency in production took precedence over meticulous bolt alignment, even in the presence of guidelines.

the positive takeaway is that this ambiguity provides you with sufficient degree of artistic freedom, allowing for unique layouts in each scheme. this not only adds an element of creativity but also ensures that every model you build has its own distinct character and authenticity. bottom line: do as you like as long as you are happy with the result, that's fine.